Brussels sprouts have undergone a complete transformation in the culinary world. Once dismissed as bitter and bland, they’re now one of the most sought-after vegetables—thanks in large part to roasting techniques and flavorful additions like garlic and Parmesan. If you’re looking for a delicious, easy side dish that’s both healthy and comforting, these crispy garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts are the perfect answer.
This recipe takes humble Brussels sprouts and turns them into a crispy, golden-brown, flavor-packed delight. The outside edges become beautifully crisped, almost like chips, while the interior stays tender and slightly creamy. When tossed in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and aromatic garlic, each bite delivers a savory punch that makes it hard to stop at just one serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can elevate Brussels sprouts into a restaurant-quality side that pairs with almost any main course. The oven does most of the work, and the recipe is highly customizable depending on your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving them as part of a weeknight dinner or adding them to a holiday spread, these Brussels sprouts are sure to impress.
Key Ingredients
- Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Choose firm, bright green sprouts. Trimming the stems and halving them helps with even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Olive Oil: Helps achieve that perfect golden texture while adding heart-healthy fats.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth, warmth, and aroma that complements the nuttiness of the sprouts.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sprouts, coating them in a salty, savory crust that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors.
- Optional Add-ins: Balsamic glaze, lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or crushed nuts can take the flavor to the next level.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly. Remove any yellowing or damaged outer leaves. Trim the stems and cut each sprout in half lengthwise.
- Season and Toss: In a large bowl, toss the sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and about two-thirds of the grated Parmesan. Make sure everything is evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This ensures maximum contact with the hot surface, which helps them crisp up.
- Roast to Perfection: Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through, you can shake the pan or use tongs to flip them slightly to avoid burning and promote even browning.
- Finish with More Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan over the sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting so it crisps up without overcooking.
- Serve Immediately: They’re best served hot, straight from the oven when the edges are crisp and the cheese is golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
These Brussels sprouts are incredibly versatile and can be served with a wide range of dishes. They pair wonderfully with roast chicken, turkey, grilled salmon, pork chops, or even as a topping for creamy polenta or risotto. They’re also an excellent addition to vegetarian grain bowls or as part of a brunch spread with eggs and toast.
If you’re serving them for a holiday meal, consider drizzling with a balsamic glaze or adding a handful of toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for extra flavor and texture.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is easy to tweak depending on your dietary needs or flavor preferences. For a lower-fat option, you can reduce the amount of cheese or use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist. For those who love bold flavors, a dash of smoked paprika or a few chili flakes can bring in a touch of heat.
For an extra crispy texture, try roasting them in an air fryer. Set the temperature to 375°F and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Crispy garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts are the kind of side dish that turns skeptics into fans. They’re flavorful, easy to prepare, and adaptable for all types of meals and occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe delivers big results with minimal effort. So the next time you’re looking for a way to make your dinner a little more exciting—or trying to convince someone to love Brussels sprouts—this dish is the perfect place to start.
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